Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam Related

Review Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam related questions and content

A client with a cold is taking the antitussive benzonatate (Tessalon). Which assessment data indicates to the nurse that the medication is effective?

  • A. Reports reduced nasal discharge.
  • B. Denies having coughing spells.
  • C. Able to sleep through the night.
  • D. Expectorating bronchial secretions.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Denies having coughing spells. Benzonatate is an antitussive medication that suppresses cough reflex. If the client denies having coughing spells, it indicates that the medication is effectively suppressing the cough. This is the most direct indicator of the medication's effectiveness.

A: Reports reduced nasal discharge - This is not directly related to the effectiveness of benzonatate in suppressing cough.
C: Able to sleep through the night - While improved sleep may result from reduced coughing, it is not as specific an indicator of antitussive effectiveness as denying coughing spells.
D: Expectorating bronchial secretions - This indicates productive coughing, which is not the intended effect of benzonatate.